Action films have long been a favourite for movie fans around the world. With fast-paced fight scenes, tough heroes and intense standoffs, the genre rarely goes out of style, and now one “high-octane” title starring Jason Statham is available to stream free of charge.
Homefront, a 2013 action thriller written by Sylvester Stallone, is now on ITVX for UK viewers. The film is based on the novel by Chuck Logan and was originally meant to star Stallone himself, but the lead role was handed to Statham, who brings his usual grit and intensity to the screen. The story follows Phil Broker, a former DEA agent trying to build a quiet life with his daughter.
But after a schoolyard incident, they become targets of Gator Bodine, a ruthless local crime boss played by James Franco.
Set in rural Louisiana, the film blends family drama with intense action. There are high-speed chases, hand-to-hand fights and a dramatic face-off between Statham and Franco that some critics have called “breathless”.
Some viewers have also called it one of Statham’s most underrated performances.
One reviewer said: “Homefront is a tense, adrenaline-fueled thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Jason Statham delivers one of his most underrated performances as the rugged and principled Phil Broker.
“James Franco is also chillingly effective as the unhinged Gator Bodine.”
Another added: “The fight scenes are intense. I was totally immersed throughout the entire movie. The sense of family was really touching and it kept my adrenaline pumped.”
Others praised the cast and the flow of the movie, with one person writing: “I loved this movie. I loved everything about this movie. Great cast. Beautifully done. I recommend this movie to everyone! Lots of action, good story, suspenseful, violent.”
The movie, which also stars Winona Ryder and Kate Bosworth, made over $51million (£38million) at the global box office, which was more than double its $22million (£16.5million) budget.
It held a top 10 position in the US box office for three weeks after release.
But not everyone was convinced. One viewer said: “Homefront was OK. I believe it had good standing actors but the plot could’ve been better. Jason did a great job as usual.”
Another added: “Far from great but not bad either. Homefront is a straightforward action thriller with some corny writing and gripping action.”
A third commented: “Jason Statham delivers but the movie is bogged down by a standard plot and an unconvincing James Franco as the primary antagonist.”
With a 61% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes from more than 25,000 reviews, Homefront won’t be for everyone.
But for those after a solid action flick with a familiar face and plenty of punches, it’s now available on ITVx.